London, UK -- Leading computer graphics and visual effects software developer, The Foundry, and partner Luxology, are pleased to announce the addition of two new hires on its Sales and Marketing team. Both Mike Ephraim and Shane Griffith join the company from Autodesk. Mike joins as Head of Americas Sales and Shane as modo Product Marketing Manager.

With more than 20 years of 3D graphics industry experience including software product management and marketing, Shane Griffith has an intimate knowledge of the AEC, manufacturing, advertising, games, and film markets. Most recently Shane worked as the Product Manager of 3ds Max and 3ds Max Design. He is a well-respected voice in the community and is now tasked with blending that industry experience with his customer knowledge to bring modo to market in new and exciting ways. 

Shane Griffith, modo Product Marketing Manager comments “The Foundry is a really innovative company and I am thrilled to be coming onboard at such an exciting time. modo’s presence in the market is growing and I can’t wait to see where we can take the product over the next year. As part of a growing, reactive organisation I am armed with all the resources I need to get things done quickly and efficiently.”

In his new role, Mike Ephraim will manage The Foundry and Luxology sales teams in the Americas. Mike also joins from Autodesk where most recently he owned the primary relationship between Autodesk M&E and the major studios such as DreamWorks, Pixar, Lucasfilm and Sony Pictures Imageworks. 

Mike Ephraim, Head of Americas Sales comments "I've long admired The Foundry's ability to respond rapidly to evolving market demand trends. They have a strong track record in identifying gaps between software that is commercially available and 2D/3D production needs. The Foundry's core competency is in addressing these gaps through industry collaboration and taking to market product offerings that are production proven from the get go. I'm thrilled to be leading the Americas sales organisation and to be helping drive the adoption of The Foundry and Luxology’s best-in-class products."

Mike began in the 3D animation and visual effects industry with Alias|wavefront in 1997 as a Territory Sales Rep. He continued his career as part of Autodesk after they acquired the company several years later. 

Bill Collis, CEO comments “We are thrilled to welcome these two talented, experienced individuals to The Foundry and Luxology. Shane has a wealth of 3D experience and industry knowledge from his time working on 3ds Max, which will make him a great addition to the team working on modo. Mike knows the industry inside out and has a great track record of dealing with our high-end clients. As a company we are privileged to be in a position to react quickly to industry trends and the demands of our customers. 2013 is an exciting year for us as we continue to grow our teams worldwide and explore new markets. We will keep on sourcing the best and brightest talent.”

The Sales and Marketing team are led by Christopher Kenessey, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer. Christopher has overall responsibility for the managing global sales, marketing, and branding. He joined The Foundry in early 2012 bringing with him a broad spectrum of experience in software sales and marketing. He was previously Director of Worldwide Operations for Cisco's Intelligent Automation Business Unit. Before that he was with Tidal Software where he served as VP of Worldwide Sales.

Source: The Foundry/ Luxology